18 Questions
Why are DNA fingerprints more useful in identifying individuals compared to fingerprints?
DNA fingerprints are unique to each individual, even for identical twins.
How do identical twins differ in terms of fingerprints and DNA fingerprints?
Identical twins share the exact same DNA fingerprints, but their fingerprints from fingers differ.
What is the main focus of DNA forensics?
The use of genetic material in criminal investigations.
How does DNA forensics assist in criminal investigations?
By matching suspects with evidence and identifying individuals.
Why is the 0.5% variation in DNA significant for forensic scientists?
Forensic scientists investigate this variation because it allows for differentiation between individuals.
What genetic information do current DNA tests primarily focus on?
Current DNA tests do not look at genes, but focus on the unique DNA sequence of individuals.
What is the purpose of paternity testing in DNA forensics?
Identifying the father of a child.
In what type of investigations can DNA forensics be used to identify missing persons?
Historical investigations and mass disasters.
How does the formation of gametes contribute to the uniqueness of individuals?
Gametes receive a random half of the genetic complement from each parent, leading to genetic variation.
List three sources of biological evidence commonly used in DNA forensics.
Blood, semen, saliva.
Why are DNA tests preferred over ABO system in forensic investigations?
DNA tests have more markers and are more stable than the ABO system.
How is ABO blood typing used in forensic cases involving blood stains?
To exclude suspects who do not have the same blood type as the crime scene sample.
What is the main reason why RFLP analysis has a high power of discrimination?
Hyper variability at each locus and ability to look at many loci
Why does RFLP analysis require a greater amount of better quality DNA than newer STR PCR based techniques?
Forensic DNA is often old and degraded
What is the challenge posed by mixtures in RFLP analysis?
Multiple DNA profiles may be detected
What is the purpose of the differential extraction procedure in sexual assault evidence?
To separate sperm cells from everything else
Why do patterns with more than two alleles per locus occur in RFLP analysis?
Due to leakage of non-sperm DNA into sperm fraction or sperm DNA into non-sperm fraction
What additional interpretational challenges do mixtures of body fluids without semen pose in forensic cases?
Pose additional interpretational challenges
Explore the role of DNA forensics in criminal investigations and beyond in the field of human biotechnology. Learn about how genetic material is used to solve crimes, identify species, trace human history, and more.
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